Leh Ladakh Road Trip in May: Manali or Srinagar Route – Which One to Take?
A Leh Ladakh road trip is a dream for every travel enthusiast, offering jaw-dropping landscapes, high-altitude mountain passes, and an unparalleled sense of adventure. If you’re planning Ladakh Road Trip in May, one key question stands out — Manali to Leh or Srinagar to Leh: which route should you take?
Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of both routes, covering everything from road conditions and permits to scenic beauty and acclimatization.
Ladakh Road Trip in May
1. Overview of the Routes
Manali to Leh Route:
Distance: ~474 km
Route: Manali → Rohtang Pass → Keylong → Jispa → Sarchu → Leh
Srinagar to Leh Route:
Distance: ~434 km
Route: Srinagar → Sonmarg → Zoji La Pass → Drass → Kargil → Leh
Both routes offer stunning landscapes and unique experiences. But depending on what you prioritize — adventure, ease of travel, acclimatization, or sightseeing — one route may be better suited for you. Ladakh Road Trip in May
2. Weather and Road Conditions in May
In May, Srinagar to Leh is typically a safer bet as it opens earlier (late April or early May). The Manali to Leh route, on the other hand, usually opens by mid or late May, depending on snow clearance at Rohtang Pass and Baralacha La.
Srinagar Route:
The roads are generally in better condition. Zoji La Pass can still be slushy and muddy from melting snow, but overall, the journey is smoother.
Manali Route:
Expect rough patches, especially between Sarchu and Pang. The road is more rugged and prone to snow blockages.
Verdict: Srinagar wins for better road conditions early in the season. Ladakh Road Trip in May
3. Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness
One of the biggest challenges of the Leh Ladakh road trip is dealing with Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) due to the high altitudes.
Srinagar Route:
This route is better for gradual acclimatization. You start from Srinagar (1,585 m), gradually ascend to Kargil (2,676 m), and then Leh (3,500 m). This slower gain gives your body time to adapt to lower oxygen levels, reducing the risk of AMS.
Manali Route:
The climb is much steeper. You start from Manali (2,050 m), but by the second day, you’re crossing Baralacha La (4,850 m) and staying at Sarchu (~4,200 m) — a notorious AMS hotspot. Many travelers feel altitude sickness here, which can make the journey exhausting.
Verdict: Srinagar route is significantly better for acclimatization. Ladakh Road Trip in May
4. Scenic Beauty and Photography
Both routes offer unparalleled beauty, but the kind of views you get are quite different.
Manali Route:
Expect dramatic landscapes with snow-capped peaks, glacier streams, and barren deserts. Rohtang Pass, Keylong, Jispa, and Sarchu present an adventurous, raw, high-altitude feel. The moonscape views from More Plains and Tanglang La are unforgettable. Ladakh Road Trip in May
Srinagar Route:
The journey starts with the lush valleys of Kashmir, transitions to the rugged mountains of Zoji La, and leads to the stark beauty of Kargil and Lamayuru’s moonland formations. You’ll also witness iconic landmarks like Drass (the second coldest inhabited place) and the Kargil War Memorial. Ladakh Road Trip in May
Verdict: Manali wins for raw, rugged beauty; Srinagar wins for diverse landscapes and historical landmarks.
5. Adventure Level
For thrill-seekers, the Manali to Leh route is more challenging. The high-altitude passes — Rohtang La, Baralacha La, Nakee La, Lachung La, and Tanglang La — offer an adrenaline-pumping ride. River crossings, unpredictable weather, and rough terrains make it the more adventurous of the two.
The Srinagar route still has its fair share of adventure, especially at Zoji La Pass, known for its narrow, hairpin turns and muddy roads. But overall, it’s a more comfortable ride. Ladakh Road Trip in May
Verdict: Manali route wins for adventure lovers.
6. Permits and Regulations
Manali Route:
You’ll need permits for Rohtang Pass and an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for regions beyond Sarchu. The Rohtang permit can be applied for online, but in peak season, availability can be an issue.
Srinagar Route:
No special permits are needed to travel from Srinagar to Leh, but you’ll still need the Inner Line Permit once you’re in Leh for areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri.
Verdict: Srinagar wins for fewer permits. Ladakh Road Trip in May
7. Fuel, Food, and Accommodation
Both routes have decent facilities, but availability varies.
Manali Route:
Fuel pumps: Manali, Tandi (last reliable one for 350 km), and Karu (near Leh).
Food & Stays: Basic hotels and dhabas in Keylong, Jispa, and Sarchu.
Expect basic, high-altitude camps in Sarchu — warm clothes and sleeping bags are a must!
Srinagar Route:
Fuel pumps: Srinagar, Sonmarg, Kargil, and Leh.
Food & Stays: Plenty of options in Sonmarg, Drass, Kargil, and Lamayuru — from budget hotels to homestays.
Verdict: Srinagar wins for better facilities. Ladakh Road Trip in May
8. Return Journey Consideration
Many bikers prefer a circular route — one way via Srinagar and return via Manali (or vice versa). This way, you get the best of both worlds!
Start from Srinagar for easy acclimatization.
Return via Manali for the thrilling, rugged experience.
Final Verdict: Srinagar vs. Manali Route
Here’s a quick summary:
Which Route Should You Choose?
If you prioritize safety, comfort, and gradual acclimatization, go via Srinagar.
If you seek adventure, thrill, and raw landscapes, take the Manali route.
For the ultimate experience, start from Srinagar and return via Manali — this balances comfort, acclimatization, and adventure perfectly!
Which route are you leaning towards? Planning a bike trip or a 4×4 adventure? I can help map out a detailed itinerary too!
